Claire Douglas is playing for the host Campbell Tartans this weekend at the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association 5A girls volleyball championship.

Her father, Murray, is a former basketball star with the Tartans. The same description applies to Murray’s siblings, Sharon and Craig.

Sharon, a former national-team basketball player, travelled from Red Deer to Regina to watch her niece compete in the provincials.

“Just knowing that they came through the exact same gym and that they played here and they know the feeling, it’s very reassuring,” Claire, a Grade 12 setter, said Friday afternoon after Campbell improved its record to 2-0.

Claire also appreciates the frequency with which people remember the athletic excellence of her father, aunt and uncle, even though they played for the Tartans in the 1970s.

Murray went on to play basketball with the University of Saskatchewan Huskies. Sharon joined the University of Regina Cougars en route to the national team. Craig played for the Cougars and Huskies.

Claire is an accomplished athlete in her own right. Last year, for example, she helped Campbell win the provincial 5A girls volleyball title and is hoping to celebrate a repeat on her team’s home court. Then it will be on to basketball season, naturally.

Campbell registered 2-0 victories in each of its first two matches on Friday, defeating the Prince Albert Carlton Crusaders and Swift Current Ardens. Against Swift Current, Campbell trailed in both games before rallying in a packed gymnasium.

“Swift Current definitely kept us on our toes,” Douglas said. “They weren’t letting anything hit the floor and they played really well.”

Ultimately, though, Campbell was able to prevail. The surroundings didn’t hurt.

“I’ve practised here almost every day for four years,” said Douglas, whose older brother Matthew played football at Campbell. “To have the familiar feeling around here and to know that our family and friends are here supporting us, that definitely helps,” Douglas said.

“On the flip side, anytime we’re in a close game, I’ve got the support of my teammates and my coaches. I try to block out the surroundings and concentrate on the game. If I have a little time to myself, it’s nice to know we have the support.”

Saturday’s action at the 5A girls provincials is to begin at 9 a.m. The championship match is set for 5:30 p.m.

The SHSAA 5A boys volleyball championship is also being held in Regina this weekend. The Miller Marauders are the host team. The 5A boys final is scheduled for Saturday, 5:30 p.m., at Miller Comprehensive Catholic High School.

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